Old Dominion University Program

The Infectious Disease Fellowship program at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at Old Dominion University is structured to offer a comprehensive approach to training in infectious diseases. The program is committed to not only advancing medical education but also providing exceptional patient care and research opportunities. With a focus on the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, the faculty consists of experts in various related fields, including travel and tropical medicine, tuberculosis, hospital epidemiology, and microbiology.

At the heart of the Infectious Disease Division's mission is a strong dedication to managing and treating adults with HIV, as well as ensuring thorough care for patients experiencing a wide array of infectious diseases. The interdisciplinary team includes a range of specialists who collaborate to furnish necessary services in both inpatient and outpatient settings, thus promoting the best outcomes for patients regardless of their health conditions.

Curriculum and Training

The curriculum within the Infectious Disease Fellowship is tailored to meet the diverse needs and interests of the fellows. This ensures a rich learning experience that encompasses significant clinical training while also allowing for research engagement. In addition, the program participants are encouraged to partake in clinical electives, which are open to medical students, physician assistant students, and residents from internal medicine and other specialties.

Regular conferences provide educational reinforcement and include weekly case conferences, didactic sessions, HIV Grand Rounds, and infectious diseases journal clubs. This immersive educational environment also includes the Virginia HIV/AIDS Resource Consultation Center, which offers multidisciplinary educational programs aimed at healthcare professionals and those living with HIV.

Clinical Rotations and Practice Areas

The fellowship offers a wealth of clinical services across various settings. These include:

• Inpatient Infectious Disease Consultation: Fellows participate in consultative services at Sentara Norfolk General Hospitals, collaborating with the microbiology lab and infection control teams.
• Outpatient Faculty Practice: Specializing in chronic infectious diseases, including hepatitis B and C, as well as HIV management.
• Tuberculosis Care: Management of active tuberculosis patients at local health departments is provided by the faculty.
• HIV & AIDS Clinics: Operating under the Ryan White program, comprehensive care is delivered to patients within Eastern Virginia, ensuring access to crucial health services.
• Antibiotic Stewardship: The faculty leads initiatives aimed at infection prevention and antibiotic stewardship, showcasing their commitment to public health.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral component of the fellowship, extending across various domains, including HIV care, healthcare disparities, antimicrobial stewardship, and hospital epidemiology. Fellows are encouraged to engage actively in ongoing research initiatives, developing skills and knowledge that will support their future careers.

Competitiveness and Admission Information

The Infectious Disease Fellowship is recognized as highly competitive, attracting candidates who have demonstrated excellence in their previous training. The program values diversity in applications, including those from DOs and international medical graduates (IMGs).

Potential applicants should note special requirements that may influence their acceptance into the program. These requirements generally include completion of a residency in internal medicine and may pertain to the year of graduation as well as performance on USMLE Step exams, specifically regarding any allowable attempts.

Visa Sponsorship and Support

The program is supportive of international applicants and can sponsor visas, specifically H-1B visas, which are common for graduates engaging in residency or fellowship training. This enables international medical graduates to gain the essential education and experience required in their specialized fields.

Faculty and Educational Environment

The faculty of the Infectious Disease program includes experienced professionals dedicated to teaching as well as clinical excellence. This educational environment fosters interaction among peers and mentors, promoting a culture of learning and professional development.